Jumping Dolphin Art Appraisal

Original Colored Pencil Drawing of a Jumping Dolphin

This is an original hand-drawn illustration executed on a white, medium-weight paper stock, likely a sketchbook or drawing pad. The central subject is a dolphin captured mid-leap in a vertical orientation. The artist utilized colored pencils to create a textured finish, employing a cross-hatching and layering technique to build depth. The color palette consists of dark charcoal grays, muted blues, earth-toned browns, and a distinct streak of golden yellow near the eye and rostrum. The anatomical rendering includes a dorsal fin, one visible pectoral fin, and a broad tail fluke. Faint, unfinished graphite pencil lines are visible in the background, suggesting undulating waves or clouds that were never completed. The paper shows slight texture and minimal wear consistent with a student or hobbyist work. There are no visible signatures or dates on the front of the piece. The craftsmanship reflects a realistic style focusing on light and shadow, though it remains in an unfinished state with the subject floating on an empty background. The overall condition is good, with no apparent foxing, tears, or significant creasing, indicating it has been relatively well-protected within a folder or book.